BOTANIC AND DOMAIN GARDENS. 
15 
will show them to greater advantage. Should the fibres sent prove of 
mercantile value the fact is sure to be discovered in such a great 
gathering of practical men from all parts of the world ; in which case 
our State forests may supply the materials for local industries and expor- 
tation. The collection will be as complete as it can be made. Appended 
is a list of the principal articles already prepared for exhibition. This 
colony should certainly be worthily represented in its botanical products 
as, to say the least of it the exchange of valuable specimens would 
thus be promoted and attention drawn to the resources of Victoria. 
A curious circumstance occurred in connection with the operation of 
clearing the Lagoon. Three species of weeds had completely covered 
that sheet of water, viz., Potamogeton obtusifolius , Heleocharis spha- 
celata and Triglochin procera. By the aid of a contrivance I devised 
consisting of two scythes fixed to two pieces of wood T shaped which 
was towed round the lagoon at the stern of the boat these weeds were 
cut and removed. Strange to say another weed (one of the confervas) 
which had not been seen in quantity before, then made its appearance 
and is giving infinitely more trouble than its predecessors. Periodical 
dragging however with the contrivance above mentioned, keeps the lake 
clear. This weed is as difficult to eradicate as thistles. 
Now that a number of spacious lawns are being created in the Botanic 
Gardens, the provision of additional seats would be a great boon to the 
public. They might very easily and cheaply be placed round trees in 
the fashion adopted in the English Public Parks and Gardens. Remarks 
are frequently made respecting this want of accommodation especially 
during the hot weather when people become fatigued with rambling 
about the grounds. 
One of the lawns now forming in the Botanic Garden to add to the 
scenery, I am so creating, as to render it available, should it ever be 
deemed necessary as an archery and croquet ground for public use. 
This will not in the least interfere with the intended use of the lawn as 
an addition to the landscape. 
I have the honor to be, Sir, 
Your obedient servant, 
WILLIAM R. GUILFOYLE, 
31st May 1875. Director. 
A plan of the Botanic Gardens is herewith appended. The dark lines through- 
out show the condition of the grounds when handed over to my charge on 
July 1st, 1873; the red lines and markings define the landscape improvements 
effected by me since that date, as well as those which are gradually being carried 
on towards completion. — W. R. G. 
